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Tag Archives: foreign-language

Willy Brandt, the former West German Chancellor, once famously said: “If I am selling to you, I speak your language. If I am buying, dann müssen sie Deutsch sprechen (then you must speak German).” The quote underscores a point we continue to emphasize more broadly to businesses and organizations today: the most effective way to […]

Despite the political rhetoric that sometimes surrounds relations between the United States and Mexico, one thing remains certain: interactions between our two countries—economically, culturally and socially—will continue to play significant roles in our mutual growth and success. Our geographic proximity and our shared interests mean we will remain active partners far into the future. Many […]

When Alban Michael passed away earlier this year at the ripe young age of 89, the occasion really marked two deaths. You see, Mr. Michael was the last surviving speaker of the Nuchatlaht language once spoken by his Native American ancestors of the Pacific Northwest. His death also marked the quiet end of yet another […]

If you’re a regular reader of our newsletters and blogs, you know we like to share examples of the unique and rich languages that exist around the world. Many times a word or expression in one language doesn’t translate exactly into another one, but they reflect universal emotions or experiences. Below are some good examples. Feel […]

As the world gets smaller and cultures continue to blend, sophisticated business leaders and marketers are refining the way they communicate their messages into foreign languages. Think about how hard it is to get your message heard above the din of competing brand campaigns in your own language. Trying to do the same thing in […]

Germany is a popular destination for tourists looking for fun and adventure as well as businesses looking to expand their customer base. As the center of Europe from a geographic and economic standpoint, Germany has much to offer. But before you don your lederhosen and head off to Oktoberfest or pack your briefcase for a […]

The United States’ proud identity as the “land of opportunity” has been a clarion call for immigrants since our country’s founding. While playing a large role in building the nation from “sea to shining sea,” immigrants also helped weave diverse customs into the cultural fabric of America—from food to fashion, from religion to politics, from […]

As more businesses and organizations engage in multilingual communications with their customers, it’s important to understand the terminology you will undoubtedly hear when working with your translation service provider. Knowing the exact meaning of the industry jargon will ensure greater success in planning and implementing your foreign language outreach efforts. Here are just a few […]

Much has changed in the insurance business since 1752 when Benjamin Franklin helped launch the Philadelphia Contributionship for the Insurance of Houses from Loss by Fire, the first property insurance company in America. One of the changes from those early colonial days is the number of languages spoken by insurance customers. Today our country is […]

Don’t let a simple act like exchanging business cards ruin a chance at establishing a lasting international relationship. Getting off on the right foot is critical, so be sure to know the appropriate cultural customs and sensitivities before you meet your foreign clients and partners. Here are some tips on international business card etiquette to help […]